scruffy

Everyday

1. Untidy and a bit dirty or worn out, about a person, clothes or a place. tree →
2. (of an animal) With messy, rough fur. tree →

In the lessons

In stories, a scruffy character might be poor, lazy, busy or simply relaxed — a scruffy dog is often lovable. In school, teachers may say «your uniform looks scruffy» (tuck your shirt in). Phrases: «scruffy clothes», «scruffy hair», «a scruffy little dog», «look scruffy».

Examples

• His jumper was scruffy with holes in the elbows. tree →
• A scruffy little dog followed us home. tree →
• Tuck your shirt in — you look scruffy. tree →
• The garden looked scruffy after the winter. tree →
• Her handwriting was scruffy because she rushed. tree →
• The scruffy old teddy was still his favourite. tree →

Note

Comparatives: scruffier, scruffiest. Informal but polite. Opposites: smart, neat, tidy. Similar: messy, shabby, untidy.